Before you buy, ask yourself: Why?

November isn’t even in the rear-view mirror yet, and already the pre-holiday sales are underway, with more to come.

And you’re looking forward to hunting down gifts for the people on your gift lists — plus some serious bargains for yourself, right?

Not so fast.

Before you plunk down the plastic on clothes for yourself, take an minute to answer some important questions. This precious “pause before purchase” could save you money you’ll want when the new season arrives (in just a few weeks). Build in a pause moment to ask yourself the following questions:

You say, “What a good deal, it’s on SALE!” But will you wear it?
When the holiday season’s over, there’s nothing to celebrate but the sales, right? Well, watch out! When the season’s over, will you be in the mood for that over-the-top evening-only outfit, or will you have to wait a whole year to wear what seemed like a bargain when you bought it? All too often, these end-of-season purchases go unused or forgotten. Will you really remember next year to dig out these holiday finds?

But wait – there IS an exception. Is your personal style contingent on glamor pieces? Do you love fur-trimmed sweaters, sequined tops, and satin tuxedo pants so much that you’ll easily wear them a dozen times before March? Then you should definitely be shopping the sales, because these are items you want now, next week and next month. That’s a good buy!

Is that new ‘basic’ about to join the other ‘basics’ already in your closet?
Shopping habits are hard to break. In fact, these habits can be so strong that you’re barely aware of the fact that you’re buying yet ANOTHER black pant, basic boot, pea coat, or V-neck sweater You’re sure you need another one!

Before purchasing that same old basic — AGAIN — ask yourself: How does this one stand out or improve upon what I already have? If you can make a case for how this one will earn its place in your closet somehow, go for it! If there’s really no difference, then just say ‘no’ and save your money.
Will this current trendy sale item have longevity – and does it matter?
This year’s novelty cardigans have ribbons, ruffles and applique. There’s hardly a simple cardigan to be found anywhere! This could be a departure for someone who wears really tailored clothing without much detail. Because it strays so far from that person’s norm, it might be a good year to pass – even if the number on the sales tag is too low to be believed. But if you like something and feel adventurous or curious enough to try something new, then the reduced price makes it an opportunity that’s hard to pass up. Take a risk – it’s not a big one! – and give yourself credit for trying something new. You may end up loving it and making an adjustment to your style recipe.

Will this item help you look more modern or just keep you at status quo?
The last thing you want to do is buy something that makes you look older than you are! Push yourself to look at new things – new cuts, silhouettes, colors, and patterns. Stretch yourself. Be a modern version of your best self. Shop with your style words written down. Print them on an index card, fold it and stuff it into your wallet. Pull those words out and look at them before you buy anything. Is this item helping you look more like you? Or is it just okay? Don’t settle! Look at the item, and ask yourself, “Is this the old me or new me?” You want to stay current. Don’t slide backwards and buy something that was so you … three years ago!

Do you know your style words?
If you don’t have words to describe your current style, don’t even think about going shopping! Invest the money in a style update. I can help you define your goals and keep you on track for getting the most out of your clothing investment. You’re going to wear clothes today, tomorrow and every day this next year. Be sure they fit and flatter you in the best way.